India and EU Discuss Stronger Ties and Peace Efforts
New Delhi – India and the European Union recently held important meetings to review their cooperation and the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Both sides emphasized the importance of achieving a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine.
The discussions highlighted a mutual commitment to promote a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. India expressed its appreciation for the EU’s growing involvement in this area, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
On November 22, India and the EU conducted the 5th Strategic Partnership Review Meeting in Brussels. The Indian delegation was led by Tanmaya Lal, Secretary in the MEA, while Simon Mordue, Deputy Secretary General for Economic and Global Issues, represented the EU.
Earlier, on November 21, both sides met for the 10th round of Foreign Policy and Security Consultations and the Energy Panel discussions. Lal also engaged with Stefano Sannino, Secretary General of the European External Action Service (EEAS). This year marks the 20th anniversary of the India-EU Strategic Partnership, and the meetings followed an increased collaboration between India and EU member countries.
The talks reviewed the wide-ranging cooperation between the two parties and assessed the implementation of goals set out in the "India-EU Strategic Partnership: A Roadmap to 2025," established during the 15th India-EU Summit in 2020. The discussions also addressed future priorities for India-EU relations.
The commitment made by EU President Ursula von der Leyen to create a new strategic agenda focusing on India-EU relations was positively received. The meeting covered various topics, including economic security, green initiatives, defense, migration, and the India-EU Connectivity Partnership, among others.
Both sides also explored enhancing collaboration in innovation, science, and technology, which is seen as vital for the growth of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council. There were discussions about the importance of the Free Trade Agreement and related agreements to boost investments and protect geographical indications.
The parties reiterated the urgent need for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, aligned with international law and the United Nations principles. They also expressed serious concern regarding the ongoing situation in the Middle East and highlighted the necessity for peace and stability there.
Both India and the EU recognized the significant role of their strategic partnership in addressing global challenges and reiterated their commitment to maintaining a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and promotes peaceful dispute resolution.
